Twitter reacts to Djokovic's ups and downs in Monte Carlo

The 2017 Monte Carlo Masters was another roller-coaster ride for Novak Djokovic who bowed out in the quarterfinals to feisty David Goffin 6-2, 3-6, 7-5. It was a breakthrough win for Goffin, but Djokovic, the 12-time major winner, has been under the microscope.

Fans and media debate when the Serbian will return to his No. 1 form after recently returning from an elbow injury, and there’s perpetual speculation about just how close or far away he is.

Tennis observers tweeted out their appraisals with his ups and downs.

During Thursday’s victory over Pablo Carreno Busta, former coach Boris Becker gave a hopeful thumbs up.

Djokovic’s battle against Goffin began with a slow start, and the match was slow to warm up.

There was a bit of symbolism when Djokovic slipped and tumbled on the clay, but he was ready to bounce back.

By the second set, ESPN tennis analyst Brad Gilbert chimed in with a more holistic view of Djokovic’s relative decline after winning the 2016 French Open.

The mood became more optimistic after Djokovic levelled the match by winning the second set. Matt Cronin pointed out the key.

There were times that Djokovic wove his magic, like this incredible defensive forehand stab for a winner.

But Djokovic couldn’t hold his third-set break, and it was Goffin who hit courageous shots down the stretch. While the Belgian was given his due for a remarkable finish, the verdict on Djokovic was to sort through more puzzling pieces.

Even the details to Djokovic’s rhythm have been analyzed, hearkening back to his early years when he used to bounce the ball extra long during key serves. Does it mean anything now?

In the end, the margins in tennis are very slim. Djokovic’s supreme motivation, fitness and confidence had him at a record-setting level one year ago, but he will need time and matches to rebuild his best form.

There will be two big stops at Madrid and Rome before Djokovic looks to defend his French Open title. Tennis observers will continue to monitor his progress every step of the way.